On December 19, 2024, the Ontario government passed Bill 229 – Working for Workers Six Act, 2024, which proposes significant amendments to key employment legislation, including the Employment Standards Act, 2000, the Occupational Health and Safety Act, and the Workplace Safety and Insurance Act, 1997.
Bill 229 introduced new leave entitlements, impose stricter health and safety penalties, and expanded occupational disease coverage for firefighters and fire investigators. Portions of the Bill were effective immediately. Other portions will come into force on a set date or on a day to be proclaimed by the Lieutenant Governor.
Here’s what you need to know about these changes and how they could impact you.
Key Amendments Under Bill 229
Employment Standards Act, 2000 Amendments
Bill 229 introduced two new unpaid leaves for eligible employees:
1. Child Placement Leave
- Provides up to 16 weeks of unpaid leave for employees with at least 13 weeks of employment.
- Applies when a child is placed in their custody through adoption or surrogacy.
- Employees must provide two weeks’ written notice before the leave begins.
- Effective date: To be proclaimed in future.
2. Long-Term Illness Leave
- Offers up to 27 weeks of unpaid leave within a 52-week period.
- Applies to employees with at least 13 weeks of consecutive employment.
- Requires a medical certificate from a qualified health practitioner confirming a serious medical condition.
- Effective date: June 19, 2025.
Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) Amendments
Key OHSA changes under Bill 229 already in force include:
1. Stricter Penalties for Workplace Safety Violations
- A minimum fine of $500,000 for corporations convicted of a second or subsequent offence resulting in serious injury or death of one or more workers within a two-year period.
2. Enhanced Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Regulations
- Employers must ensure PPE provided is a proper fit and appropriate for all workers across various industries.
3. Expanded Authority for the Chief Prevention Officer (CPO)
- The CPO will gain expanded powers to assess and approve training programs outside of Ontario, establish policies related to general training requirements under the OHSA, obtain advice from an advisory committee, collection and use of information regarding provincial health and safety strategies or to provide advice to prevent workplace injury and occupational disease.
4. Worker Trades Committees
- The Minister of Labour may order constructors to establish worker trades committees for projects to enhance on-site worker safety.
Workplace Safety and Insurance Act Amendments
Key updates that will take effect on a date to be proclaimed in the future include:
1. Expanded Occupational Disease Coverage
- Adds kidney and colorectal cancer to the list of presumptive occupational diseases for firefighters and fire investigators with at least 10 years of service.
2. Surplus Fund Distribution to Municipal Employers
- Requires distribution of surplus WSIB funds to municipalities that meet prescribed requirements.
What These Changes Mean for Employers and Employees
Bill 229 introduced significant changes that impact both employers and employees. Employers who have not already done so will need to update their workplace policies and ensure compliance with the new leave provisions, safety standards, and WSIB eligibility criteria. Employees should be aware of their rights and entitlements to take full advantage of the benefits available.
Need Help Navigating the Bill 229 Changes?
Understanding legislative changes and their impact on your business or employment can be challenging. At Minken Employment Lawyers (Est. 1990), we provide expert guidance to ensure compliance and protect your rights.
Call us today at 905-477-7011 or email contact@minken.com to schedule a consultation and learn how these changes affect you.
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Please note that this article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice nor should it be relied on as legal advice or opinion.
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The post Ontario Introduces Bill 229: What Employers and Employees Need to Know appeared first on Minken Employment Lawyers.